Millennials now make up the largest percentage of the workforce. And since they are digital natives and fresh out of school, they are appealing recruits for companies that need up-to-date IT candidates. As a job seeker over 35, that can leave you feeling like second-class talent. Luckily, there are ways that you can leverage your experience and expertise to compete with younger job seekers. Here are some tips:
Learn New Technologies
You are still relatively early in your career and have probably spent most of the last decade focused on making a positive impression and getting ahead. That may not have left a lot of time for professional development, and now your tech skills are not as current as they need to be. Make the effort to learn new software and hardware, and be sure to focus on the IT that is relevant to your employer/industry. Going back to school is expensive and takes a lot of time, so consider getting certifications, contributing to open source projects, or working with collaborators.
Seek Out the Best Information
Knowledge is power in any job search. But in today’s world the most useful information often doesn’t show up in print, television, or major news outlets. Stay on the cutting edge by focusing your attention on social media, message boards, blogs, and industry-related websites instead. Seeking out these insider insights is a great way to learn about vacancies faster and potential employers in-depth.
Focus on Results
Employers are more interested in achievements than abilities, and this is one area where you have a leg up over millennials. Since they have relatively little professional experience they can’t point to evidence of successful projects and outstanding results – but you can. Make the focus of your resume/cover letter/interview the things you have accomplished over your career. The fact that you know how to get things done is attractive to all hiring managers.
Be Flexible
A confirmed feature of millennials is their desire to work in more flexible work environments. They are looking for work-from-home opportunities, flexible scheduling, and temporary assignments. These may not appeal to you, but it will only hold you back if you try to highlight your inflexibility. Be willing, even excited, to work on the terms of 2016.
Remember, too, that as a member of Generation X you are far from irrelevant. You grew up both personally and professionally at a time when IT was truly developing into its mature form. That’s experience that employers value as they increasingly look for candidates who understand the intersection of business and technology. Find more advice and resources to aid you in your job search by working with The Squires Group.
